Please follow these simple instructions to promote full recovery.
You will have pressure bandage around your head to prevent further bleeding from the wound. This should be left on overnight and be removed the next day.
Pain relief
You will be given some painkillers to take home with you however the pain should settle within a week.
Numbness of the scalp:
You may notice that the skin around the scalp feels numb. This is not usually permanent and the feeling will return over time as the nerves in the skin repair.
The first day after your surgery
The pressure bandage can be removed.
You will notice that you have a round cap which is fitted onto a stud and a thin dressing underneath the cap that covers the wound. The cap ensures that the dressing stays in position.
If the cap falls off it can be simply put back onto the stud fitting but always wash your hands before you attempt this to prevent any source of infection. You may notice the dressing is stained with old blood, this is normal.
Washing you hair:
We strongly recommend that you ask someone to help you when washing your hair so that the dressing does not become wet. There are dry shampoos that can be used as an alternative method of keeping the hair clean.
Dressing removal
You will be given an appointment to see a doctor or a nurse to have the dressing removed 7 to 10 days after your surgery.
This will make the removal of the dressing easier. A nurse or doctor will remove the cap and dressing and will advise you about follow up care. Some patients will need to attend for further dressing changes if the wound has not completely healed.
Once the dressing is removed the wound may have a few scabs and you will notice some dissolvable stitches. Do not remove these as you will make the wound bleed and increase the likelihood of an infection.
The scabs will come off over time and the stitches will dissolve on their own accord. You will be given a soft brush to gently clean around the stud on a daily basis. The nurse or doctor will advise you when to start cleaning around the stud.
Contact us
If you require further information please contact us on:
- Ward 35: 01642 854535
- Email: [email protected]
- Out of hours: 111
- In an emergency dial 999
Patient experience
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust would like your feedback. If you wish to share your experience about your care and treatment or on behalf of a patient, please contact The Patient Experience Department who will advise you on how best to do this.
This service is based at The James Cook University Hospital but also covers the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, our community hospitals and community health services.
To ensure we meet your communication needs please inform the Patient Experience Department of any special requirements, for example; braille or large print.
T: 01642 835964
E: [email protected]